Best Resources in Pittsburgh for Black Creatives

Generating an income by doing something you are passionate about is a fulfilling path that can also be daunting and scary. When looking for capital, space, a network and more, the journey can be a little less daunting if you know where to ask for help — but there is a disproportionate number of helpful resources available specifically for Black creatives. These three organizations help Black creatives be seen, connect and thrive.

June 15, 2022

Kahmeela Adams-Friedson,

PHOTO: SHUTTERSTOCK

1. Origins.
Origins launched in 2019 as a partnership between Bridgeway Capital’s Creative Business Accelerator and Knotzland founder Nisha Blackwell. “The vision for Origins is to foster leadership and resiliency among Black-owned creative businesses in our region through one-on-one technical assistance, capital readiness, a peer network and much more,” says Origins cohort leader and business coach Roderick Ramsey. Existing as a safe space to support and celebrate Black-owned creative businesses, Origins has very few barriers to joining, and creatives in all stages of business growth and experience are welcome.
(originspgh.org)

2. The Greenwood Plan.
The Greenwood Plan started as a weeklong series of classes designed for Black and other minority entrepreneurs looking to start or grow their businesses. Founders Samantha Black and Khamil Bailey recognized the urgent community need for this type of educational resourcing. The once-a-year event grew into a nonprofit and a co-workspace Downtown called Emerald City. Its mission is to “advance economic justice for Black communities by bridging people and knowledge networks, redirecting resources, and supporting the unique needs of Black businesses.”
(greenwoodplan.com)

3. Sibyls Shrine.
With the name serving as an homage to the Sibyls, the original priestesses of the Black goddess Mami Wata, Sibyls Shrine is meant specifically for Black women, womxn, trans women and femmes who are mothers and identify as artists, creatives and/or activists in Pittsburgh and beyond. With an emphasis on skill sharing and radical self-care, it’s meant to help a group of people that often forgets to take care of themselves.
(sibylsshrine.com)